Rap legend Snoop Dogg has launched a new foundation to help poor families in Jamaica grow their own food.

The Drop It Like It's Hot hitmaker was shocked by the levels of poverty faced by locals, especially youngsters, while recording his first reggae album Reincarnated in the country.

He has now set up The Minds Garden Project, which will provide residents with tools and resources so they can grow their own fruit and vegetables.

The star says, "When I went to Jamaica we took time to visit these communities in Kingston, and I was deeply affected by the poverty and lack of good food available to the children.

"No child should go hungry. After all the inspiration Jamaica had provided me, I felt compelled to create a program to give back to the community."

Snoop is also planning to bring his initiative to the U.S., adding, "This is just the start; we have some big plans to roll out Mind Gardens Stateside in the year to come. We can all do our part to help people eat healthier and live better."